[Based on the Project Idea Note of 24 December 2009]

The Industries Chimiques du Sénégal (ICS) have been operating phosphate mines in Taïba, near Tivaoune, in the Thiès district,  rural community of Méoune, since 1957. It is the largest industrial complex in Senegal.

Within the framework of their environmental policy, the ICS are contemplating the rehabilitation of their old quarries by reforestation, using carbon benefits to finance those activities. The surface to be rehabilitated is about 6 000 ha, and the project would be realised in collaboration with the local population.

The land, degraded as a result of former phosphate extraction, will be replanted with two local tree species: Acacia senegal for the production of gum Arabica and Anacardium for the production of cashew nuts. The seedlings for reforestation will be produced in nurseries installed by the company. In addition to carbon sequestration, which contributes to reducing CO2 emissions, the plantation of gum trees and anacardiums, and the maintaining of a grass cover will reduce wind erosion and fix soil cover. The absence of fire and the lack of grazing in sensitive periods will increase the chances of regeneration of woody and herbaceous species, thereby enhancing biodiversity. Local rural communities will benefit as they will be involved in every stage of the project, with broad employment prospects in the plantation and other related activities of the project.